Pirates' Hurdle: Francisco Cervelli 'a hungry learner'

(2/21/15) Pirates manager Clint Hurdle said Friday that catcher Francisco Cervelli has been "a hungry learner" while preparing for his first camp with the team, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.

"He is a hungry learner right now," Hurdle said. "He's asking questions, having conversations, watching video tape. It's getting the time on the field, behind the plate, watching the ball out of the hand, getting to know the guys."

"In bullpens, I watch every pitch, where the pitch goes and the mechanics," Cervelli said. "I've got to go slow and keep my eyes open."

Cervelli had a great season at the plate in limited action last year, hitting .301/.370/.432 with two home runs and 13 RBI in 146 at-bats with the Yankees.

"Francisco was an aggressive acquire for us," Huntington said, "and Chris did a heck of a job for us last year. We feel very comfortable with the defensive side, and we feel Francisco has some bat upside.

"At this point in time, we would feel very comfortable if opening day were tomorrow and this was our catching mix."

Yankees deal Francisco Cervelli to Pirates

Cervelli turned out a strong season in limited work. The 28-year-old hit .301/.370/.432 over 146 at-bats. Cervelli was limited by a hamstring injury and migraines during the year. The Pirates will send over 27-year-old pitcher Justin Wilson, according to the New York Post. Wilson posted a 4.20 ERA over 60 innings last year.

02/18/2015 11:35Catcher tiers for Draft Day 2015
We all thought catcher had become a position of depth -- until last season crushed that thought. Our Scott White breaks down backstop tiers for Draft Day 2015.